The Science of Stepping Outside: How Nature Restores Calm & Focus

The Science of Stepping Outside: How Nature Restores Calm & FocusThe secrets of forest bathing revealed. Guest: Susanne Meis (Forest Bathing / Shinrin-yoku guide; leads the guide team at Kew Gardens)Episode Summary:What if the fastest way to feel calmer, clearer and more energised was… free and right outside your door? This week, Sally and Anne are joined by Suzanne, a forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) guide, to explore what forest bathing really is (hint: it’s not just a walk in the woods). Suzanne shares the science-backed benefits of being with nature—how it helps shift you out of fight-or-flight and into rest-and-digest—plus simple practices you can try in just 10–15 minutes.In This Episode, We Cover:Sally’s quick grounding reset (5 minutes on the grass!)What forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) actually meansWhy modern life keeps us stuck in fight-or-flightHow nature supports the parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest)Why “being with nature” is different from exercising in naturePhone-free time outdoors (and why one glance can break the reset)The “soft fascination” effect that restores focus and mental energyTree compounds (phytoncides) and immune support (as discussed)Simple, practical ways to start forest bathing anywhereSuzanne’s powerful 1% tip: focus on beautyTry This: Your 1% Happier & Healthier ActionSet a timer for 10 minutes. Go outside (garden, park, or street with trees). Put your phone on silent/flight mode. Walk slowly and notice:one soundone colourone texture or movementAsk yourself: How do I feel now compared to 10 minutes ago?Practical Exercises Mentioned:Sensory walk: slow down, no destination, open your sensesTree / fractal tracing: follow a tree’s branches slowly with your eyesFingertip tracing: gently trace fingertips along your forearm/hand to anchor calmMorning light practice: step outside early, orient toward daylight, breathe and visualise light “flooding” the body (as described)Resources Mentioned:Richard Louv — Last Child in the Woods (nature deficit disorder concept)Dr. Jacob Lieberman — Light: Medicine of the Future; Take Off Your Glasses and SeeSuzanne also references Luminous Life as a favouriteConnect with Susanne:Forest bathing events via the Kew Gardens websiteWebsite: meetinnature.comFree resource mentioned: Natural Energy Insider Guide (on her website)Quotes to Remember:“Forest bathing isn’t just being in nature—it’s being with nature.”“Nature is the therapist. I’m not the therapist.”“Focus on beauty—it lifts you out of fear and expands you.”Join the 1% Happier & Healthier CommunityOn a similar journey? Want to share your story and connect withothers making positive changes? Join our private 1% Happier & Healthier FacebookCommunity for encouragement, tips, and real talk.📩 Email us at [email protected] to request an invite!🎧 Thanks for Listening!If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review – it helps others discover the show and join the 1% movement!A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outromusic, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxStay Connected with UsFollow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Have questions or want to join our Facebook community? Reach outto us at [email protected] with Susanne Meis to find out more. Forest Bathing at Kew Gardens Instagram tfb_institute Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.